Kata bunkai is the applications to the karate moves contained within the karate kata. kata applications are an important part of karate kata. Understanding what each technique is for, enables the karateka to deliver the kata powerfully and with a full understanding. There are two types of kata applications.
1. The classical applications as you will see in the karate video below. Each attack and counter is practiced with the form in mind. So the kartateka defending, tries to make the applications as close to the karate move in the kata as possible.
2. This version takes the techniques into a self defence situation. As seen in the video below. Many years ago on the island of Okinawa, no free sparring was practiced, just applications to kata, but the karateka were practicing as oif their lives depended on the moves.
In the sample video below (taken from the members area), we have taken a few karate moves out of each of the 5 heian kata. They are practiced in classical and self defence styles.
